Subject: Accident Inquiry: Do I Need to Report to DMV?
Hi everyone,
I had an accident tonight where the other driver was at fault. I was going straight through a green light when another driver making a left failed to yield and floored it. I tried to brake and veer right, but it wasn’t enough to avoid a collision. She admitted guilt and apologized sincerely.
I called the police, but they took about an hour and a half to arrive. By then, the other driver mentioned she had a dog at home and needed to leave. When the officer finally showed up, he informed me that since New York is a no-fault state, a police report isn’t strictly necessary. However, I’ve seen conflicting information online suggesting I do need to file one. I’ve already contacted her insurance and filed a claim, and I found the MV-104 form online. Should I go ahead and fill that out to submit it to the DMV?
Also, I’m uncertain about what to do next. This is my first accident, and my car has significant damage. It might cost a couple of thousand dollars to fix, if it’s not totaled. While I managed to drive it home, I’m not sure about the extent of the damage until I get it checked out at a shop. Should I also notify my own insurance to file a claim with them?
Thanks in advance for all your help! 🙏🏼
I’m sorry to hear about your accident! Since you’re in New York, here’s a bit of guidance on what you should do next:
File a Report with the DMV: Even though it’s a no-fault state, you’re still required to report the accident to the DMV if there were any injuries or if the damage exceeds $1,000. Since your car has significant damage, it’s a good idea to fill out the MV-104 form and submit it to the DMV. It’s better to be safe and ensure everything is documented correctly.
Contact Your Insurance: Yes, you should absolutely call your insurance company and file a claim. They can help guide you on the next steps for getting your car assessed and repaired. They will also advise you on dealing with the other driver’s insurance if you decide to go that route given the damage.
Document Everything: Keep records of all correspondence, photographs of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any statements from the other driver. This documentation can be very useful for insurance claims and potential legal action if necessary.
Monitor Your Health: Sometimes, injuries don’t show up immediately. Keep an eye on how you’re feeling in the coming days. If any issues arise, consider getting checked out by a medical professional.
Consult a Professional: If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the claims process, it might be beneficial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in car accidents.
Hopefully, things will get sorted out quickly for you. Good luck!